New Driving License

Instructions to obtain the new smart card Driving License.This driving license is issued in following two methods.

  • First method - Online method at the Head Office for the issue of licenses at Werahera and following District offices
    • Kurunegala
    • Hambanthota(Printing available)
    • Gampaha(Sub office at "Negombo" is also available)
    • Anuradhapura(Printing available)
    • Kaluthara
    • Jaffna
    • Monaragala
  • Second method- Offline method at other district offices.

Common requirements

  • Applicant should be present in person.
  • Should bring the national identity card or the valid passport with the national identity card number.
  • In obtaining the service from offices where online method is available producing photographs is not required and the relevant photographs are taken during the computer process. For offices where offline method is used two passport size  black and white photographs with white background are required.
  • In obtaining a driving license for the first time, original of the birth certificate should be produced.

1 Obtaining a new driving license for light vehicles.

  • It is possible to register and sit for the written test if 17 years of age has been completed.
  • In the event of passing the written test, a learners’ permit is issued up to a maximum of 18 months.
  • Holder of such permit can practice driving.
  • One should complete 18 years of age to face the practical test and a minimum of 3 months should have passed after obtaining the learners’ permit.
  • It is compulsory to face the practical test and pass it.
  • Aptitude Medical Certificate obtained from the National Transport Medical Institution within a period not exceeding 6 months.

2 Extension of the driving license for heavy vehicles.

  • Should be a holder of a license for light vehicles (only B and B1 vehicle classes) for a minimum of 2 years prior to the date of application.
  • To obtain a license for light motor bus and motor lorry category the minimum height should be 4 feet 10 inches. A minimum height of 5 feet is required to obtain a licence for Motor bus and motor lorry category.
  • It is possible to register and face the written test on completion of 20 years of age.
  • In the event of passing the written test, a learners’ permit is issued for maximum period up to 18 months.
  • Holder of such permit can practice driving.
  • 21 years of age has to be completed to face the practical test and a minimum of 3 months should have passed since obtaining the learners’ permit.
  • It is compulsory for the applicant to face the practical test and pass it.
  • Aptitude Medical Certificate obtained from the National Transport Medical Institution within a period not exceeding 6 months.